Zack Baun is easily one of the greatest stories in NFL history.
The Eagles had initially signed the former New Orleans Saints 2020 third-round pick to a one-year deal in NFL free agency last March for some extra depth at the linebacker position. However, Baun quickly became a became a key contributor to the Eagles' defense when they moved him from outside to inside linebacker.
In 16 starts for the Eagles in 2024, Baun racked up career highs across the board with 3.5 sacks, one interception, four pass breakups, five forced fumbles, 11 tackles for loss, five quarterback hits, and 151 total tackles. Those numbers earned him his first Pro Bowl and All-Pro nod in fours seasons.
His outstanding performance also made him one of five finalists for the 2024 AP Defensive Player of the Year award.
"That's really cool, really special," Baun said of the nomination. "Honestly, not even on the spectrum of a goal of mine. I really just try to be the best player I can be and try to maximize my potential and my ability. So, for that to be -- not the end result-- but an outcome of the work I put in I'm really proud of myself.
"It's a lot of credit to the guys up front and for aiding this team and my success. I really appreciate their efforts."
Baun, as humble as could be, hesitated before admitting he believes he is deserving of the award.
"That's a weird, tough question," Baun said when asked if he feels he deserves to win the award. "I don't know. I don't look at other people's stats. I don't know where I fall or what I've done is to their level. But I am in the running for that award, so I feel like I deserve it in some fashion."
Defensive ends and cornerbacks typically own the award, but it's been a longtime coming since the league has seen an inside linebacker as dominate as Baun.
In fact, Luke Kuechly was the last off-ball to win the DPOY award in 2013 after he finished the year with 156 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, one sack, and four interceptions.
Baun's numbers are just as good, if not better.
The winner of the DPOY award will officially be announced at this year's NFL Honors in New Orleans on Thursday, Feb. 6 at 9 p.m. ET.
